About the Webinar:
This presentation explored the impact of career and technical education (CTE) on students, families, and communities. Attendees learned how several Florida schools leveraged quality CTE programs to prepare students for careers and further education, helping to transform their futures.
Schools and Career and Technical Education (CTE): A Winning Strategy for Students
Presenter:
- Kevin O'Farrell, Chancellor, Division of Career and Adult Education, Florida Department of Education
Date/Time: November 20, 2024
Conference: 2024 FL Charter School Conference
View The Recording:
Session Summary
This presentation, "Schools and Career and Technical Education (CTE): A Winning Strategy for Students," by Kevin O'Farrell, Chancellor of the Division of Career and Adult Education at the Florida Department of Education, explores the transformative impact of Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs on students, families, and communities. The session begins with O'Farrell highlighting the importance of CTE in preparing students for success in the workforce and providing them with the skills and knowledge needed for in-demand careers.
The presentation then delves into the various benefits of CTE, including increased graduation rates, higher earning potential, and reduced student loan debt. O'Farrell emphasizes the importance of partnerships between schools, businesses, and community organizations to create effective CTE programs that align with industry needs.
The presentation also showcases examples of successful CTE programs in Florida schools, including Slam Boca Raton, Korea Korean Collegiate Academy, and South Tech Schools. These schools have implemented innovative CTE programs that provide students with hands-on learning experiences, industry certifications, and pathways to high-demand careers.
O'Farrell discusses the funding opportunities available to support CTE programs, such as the Workforce Capitalization Grant, which provides resources for equipment, facility renovations, and program expansion. He also highlights the importance of engaging students in career exploration and planning at an early age through tools like Zello, a free online platform that connects students with career pathways and educational opportunities.
The presentation concludes with a call to action for schools and communities to invest in CTE and create a strong talent pipeline to meet the needs of Florida's growing economy. O'Farrell emphasizes the importance of collaboration, innovation, and a commitment to providing all students with the opportunity to succeed in the 21st-century workforce.
Overall, the presentation provides a compelling overview of the benefits of CTE and its potential to transform the lives of students and communities. It highlights the importance of partnerships, funding opportunities, and early career exploration to create a robust CTE ecosystem that prepares students for success in high-demand fields.